When a powerful storm rips through your neighborhood, it leaves more than just fallen tree limbs and missing shingles in its wake, it leaves stress, confusion, and a long to-do list. Before you reach for the phone to call your insurance company, pause. There’s a lot you can (and should) do first to set yourself up for a smoother storm damage insurance process.
This guide will walk you through each critical step, blending expert advice with real-world experience so you can make informed decisions during a chaotic time. Let’s dive in, storm boots on, camera ready.
Stay Safe and Survey the Scene
Safety First
Before anything else, check for hazards. Are there downed power lines, gas leaks, or unstable structures? If you’re unsure, call your utility company or emergency services right away.
Quick Scan from a Distance
Once it's safe to go outside, do a visual sweep from a safe distance. Look for:
- Missing roof shingles
- Broken windows
- Tree limbs on structures
- Flooding around your foundation
Avoid entering heavily damaged areas until they’ve been professionally inspected.
Take Photos, Lots of Them
Document Everything
Before you start cleaning or moving anything, grab your smartphone or camera. Take wide-angle shots of your home, close-ups of damage, and multiple angles of each area. These will be essential during the storm damage insurance process.
- Turn on your phone’s location and time-stamp settings for verification purposes.
Focus Areas to Photograph:
- Roof and gutters
- Siding and exterior walls
- Interior ceilings and floors (for water damage)
- Yard debris
- Damaged furniture or belongings
Prevent Further Damage
Tarp It, Board It, Cover It
Most policies require homeowners to prevent additional damage. That means tarping roofs, boarding up broken windows, or shutting off water supply if you notice leaking pipes.
Save All Receipts
If you buy supplies like plastic sheeting, plywood, or sandbags, keep the receipts. These may be reimbursable through your storm damage insurance policy.
Avoid Permanent Repairs
Temporarily patch things, but don’t begin full-scale repairs until after an adjuster has reviewed the damage.
Make a List of Damaged Items
Inventory Everything That’s Ruined
Start listing out damaged possessions, furniture, electronics, clothing, appliances, etc. Include the following for each item:
- Brand and model
- Approximate purchase date and cost
- Where it was located in the house
- Photos, if available
Having a solid inventory can speed up the storm damage insurance process and improve the accuracy of your claim.
Check Your Insurance Policy
Understand What’s Covered
Before you call your provider, read through your policy. It may be long and filled with jargon, but understanding key points will make you feel more in control.
Look for:
- Deductible amount
- Coverage limits
- Exclusions (especially for flooding, mold, or wind-driven rain)
- Coverage for temporary housing if you need to relocate
If you can't make sense of it, highlight questions to ask the insurance rep later.
Know What Not to Do
Don’t Toss Damaged Items Too Soon
Even if something is soaked or broken, hang onto it until your adjuster sees it or you get written permission to discard it.
Don’t Hire Just Anyone
Scammers often flock to storm-damaged areas. Be wary of contractors offering quick fixes and asking for full payment upfront. Always verify licenses and references.
Don’t Delay Too Long
Most policies have a window for filing a claim. Act promptly, even if you're overwhelmed.
Gather Key Documents Before You Call
Have Everything Ready
Calling your insurance provider will be easier if you have the following on hand:
Policy number
- Photos and videos of the damage
- Inventory list of damaged items
- Receipts for emergency repairs
- A notebook for taking notes during the call
Being prepared makes the call more efficient, and gives you peace of mind.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Now You’re Ready to Call
You’ve taken photos, documented losses, reviewed your policy, and protected your home. Now’s the time to call your insurer and start the storm damage insurance process officially.
- During the call, ask:
- What steps to take next
- Whether a claims adjuster will be sent
- What expenses may be reimbursed
- Estimated timelines for the claim review
- Take thorough notes, including names and job titles.
Meet the Claims Adjuster
Prepare for the Visit
The adjuster is your key to unlocking compensation. Make their job easier by showing:
- A walk-through of damage
- The itemized list of losses
- Proof of prior repairs or home upgrades
- Emergency repair receipts
Don’t be afraid to ask questions or request clarification, this is your home, your claim.
Get Multiple Repair Quotes
Shop Around Smartly
Even if your insurer suggests contractors, you’re free to get multiple quotes. Having comparisons will help ensure fair compensation and prevent delays.
Look for Licensed, Insured Pros
Choose contractors with solid reputations. Sites like Angi, HomeAdvisor, or your local Better Business Bureau are good places to start.
Temporary Housing Help
Can’t Stay Home? Know Your Options
If your home is uninhabitable, your policy may include Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage. That can help cover:
- Hotel stays
- Meals
- Laundry
- Pet boarding
Always keep receipts and confirm with your insurer what qualifies for reimbursement under your storm damage insurance.
Keep All Communication in Writing
Emails Over Phone Calls
It’s easier to reference emails later than rely on memory. After a phone conversation, send a follow-up email summarizing what was discussed.
Document All Interactions
Save every document, receipt, quote, email, and letter related to the storm damage insurance process. You never know when you’ll need to refer back.
Watch Out for Lowball Offers
Don’t Feel Pressured
Sometimes, initial settlement offers are lower than expected. You’re allowed to negotiate. If you believe the damage estimate is too low, provide additional evidence or request a second evaluation.
Bring in an Independent Adjuster
For significant losses, hiring a public adjuster can be a smart move. They work for you, not the insurance company, and can help maximize your payout.
Know Your Appeal Rights
Denied Claim? Don’t Panic
You can appeal a denial. Ask your insurer for a detailed explanation and respond with documentation, photos, and estimates.
Steps to Appeal:
- Review denial letter carefully
- Gather new evidence or expert opinions
- Submit a formal written appeal
- Consider hiring a legal expert if the stakes are high
Prepare for the Future
Don’t Let This Happen Again
Use this experience as motivation to prepare for the next storm season. Consider:
- Upgrading to impact-resistant windows
- Installing a sump pump or French drain system
- Creating a digital home inventory with apps like Sortly or Encircle
- Reviewing your storm damage insurance policy annually with an agent
You’ve Got This
Dealing with storm damage is overwhelming. It’s emotional, time-consuming, and full of uncertainty. But with the right preparation and knowledge, you can make the storm damage insurance process less painful, and even empowering.
Take it one step at a time. Protect your home. Document everything. And don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself. Storms may come and go, but the steps you take now can help you weather anything that comes next.
